Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy​

Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound in what is usually known as ‘magic mushrooms.’ Once ingested, Psilocybin gets metabolized into psilocin, which interacts with your brain to induce an altered state of consciousness.  

These altered states create a sense of reality distortion, altered sense of time, changes in mood and perception, and enhanced emotional reactivity, among others. 

Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that involves the use of psilocybin, a hallucinogenic compound found in certain mushrooms, to facilitate emotional healing and self-discovery.

In a controlled and supportive setting, individuals consume a carefully measured dose while supervised by a qualified team of healthcare providers. 

This process aims to induce altered states of consciousness, allowing for deep introspection and emotional release. 

The therapists assist individuals in uncovering meaning and integrating insights gained from the sessions into their daily lives.

Recreational use of Psilocybin usually comes from individuals ingesting magic mushrooms by themselves or with a friend or family member present. Psilocybin consumed recreationally can be more dangerous physically and psychologically, as well as less therapeutic than when done within a regulated setting. 

Treatment programs utilizing psilocybin therapy are facilitated in a regulated setting with an interdisciplinary team of professional healthcare supervisors. Eligible clients will undergo intensive screening and vigorous preparation and integration work before and after psilocybin sessions. This has been proven to increase safety and has led to more positive outcomes for long-term positive benefits.

Psilocybin’s main site of action is on the serotonin system of the brain, which is what contributes to producing an altered state of consciousness.

The brain’s natural state has demonstrated that it operates with high activity in the Default-Mode-Network (DMN). Psilocybin slows activation in this network, allowing the brain to shut down from its typical thinking patterns. 

This shift in consciousness can provide new insights and perspectives, which can lead to long-lasting benefits if the psychedelic experience is appropriately integrated into one’s own life.

Psilocybin has shown effectiveness in reducing depression and anxiety, particularly for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and End-of-life Anxiety.

In January 2022, Health Canada expanded the Special Access Program (SAP), making Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy legally accessible when used by regulated health professionals. Psilocybin is still considered illegal outside of a regulated setting.

The SAP is a Health Canada program that allows professionals to request access to drugs not currently authorized for sale in Canada to treat patients with serious or life-threatening conditions. 

Each application must provide supporting evidence for safety and efficacy, and applications are reviewed case-by-case to determine eligibility.

Psilocybin is generally considered safe when used responsibly, in the right setting, and with appropriate doses. However, caution must be used when considering factors like pre-existing medical conditions, mental health issues, participant unreadiness, or certain medications which may interact negatively.

Psilocybin, within the SAP, is currently used for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and End-of-life Anxiety. Ongoing clinical trials are exploring its potential for additional mental health conditions.

Psilocybin therapy produces long-lasting positive mental health effects and behavioral improvements, particularly against Major Depressive Disorder and end-of-life anxiety.

Strong evidence exists for cancer-related depression and anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression. Ongoing clinical trials are exploring its potential for treating migraines, addiction, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, OCD, and more.

Psilocybin can exacerbate underlying psychotic conditions and poses cardiovascular risks with chronic use. People with a history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder should avoid it. 

Interactions with certain medications are possible, necessitating discussion with healthcare professionals.

While your insurance agency may cover a portion or all of the cost, direct billing is not provided as Cena Life is a private pay service. 

However, invoices can be provided for reimbursement.

When leaving your Psilocybin sessions, you must be driven home by a family member or a friend. No driving, operating hazardous equipment, or engaging in hazardous activities for the next 12-24 hours. Avoid making critical decisions for 12-24 hours. Avoid consuming alcohol or other recreational drugs.

You will be provided with after-care instructions after your first treatment.